Transitioning from relaxed to natural hair can be an exciting process, but it also requires dedication and patience. During the transition period, you will have both relaxed and natural hair textures growing out at the same time, which brings unique challenges in caring for and styling your hair. In this article, we will provide tips and strategies to help you successfully transition to healthy natural hair.
We will start by discussing what the transitioning process entails and how to determine when to do a big chop. Then we'll cover the best hair care practices like ingredient avoidance, protective styling, and moisture retention. Product recommendations will also be included. You'll learn how to handle styling, breakage and maintenance during each stage. By the end, you'll gain a thorough understanding of how to nourish your hair as your texture changes.
What is Hair Transitioning?
Hair transitioning is when you stop relaxing your hair and allow your natural texture to grow out. Relaxed hair fibers have been broken and rebonded straight, while natural hair grows out in its natural curl, coil or wave pattern. During the transition period, the new growth comes in kinky or curly while the ends remain relaxed and straight. This creates a line of demarcation that requires special care. The transition generally takes anywhere from 6-18 months before all the relaxed hair is cut off.
When to Do a Big Chop
At some point during the transition, many opt to do a big chop – cutting off all the relaxed hair so only the natural new growth remains. This allows you to start fresh with only one texture to care for. You'll know it's time when most of your hair is natural, the line of demarcation reaches the ears or nape, or split ends have taken over the relaxed ends. It's also a good idea to chop before the relaxed ends become too fine and damaged. For many, the big chop happens around the 6-12 month mark.
Moisturizing During Transition
Retaining moisture is critical when you have two different textures to care for. Avoid drying ingredients like alcohol and sulfates. Instead, look for moisturizing agents high in the ingredient list like vegetable glycerin, shea butter and coconut oil. Deep condition weekly with a high-quality hair masque. Seal moisture with an oil like jojoba, grapeseed or argan oil after washing. Use a leave-in conditioner or cream daily on wet or damp hair to lock in hydration before drying or styling.
Protective Styling Tips
Protect your ends during transition by limiting direct heat and styles that pull and tug. Braid, twist or bun your hair at night to minimize breakage. Wear your natural hair out sometimes too to allow your curls to flourish. Consider wigs, weaves, protective styles and low manipulation styles during high-tension phases for low-maintenance looks that don't disrupt your progress.
Products for Transitioning
Here are some product recommendations for transitioning hair:
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Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla Sulfate-Free Shampoo – gently cleanses without stripping hair.
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As I Am Coconut Cowash – moisturizing cowash for co-washing.
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SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie – thick cream to define curls.
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Taliah Waajid Protective Mist – shields hair from heat and environmental stress.
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Eden BodyWorks Jojoba Monoi Hair Lotion – lightweight leave-in conditioner.
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ORS Carrot Oil Cream – rich treatment cream for deep conditioning.
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Scotty Bonnets/Satin Pillowcases – help cut down frizz and breakage.
Addressing Breakage
Gently detangle hair with conditioner in the shower to prevent excessive breakage. Moisturize front sections prone to more manipulation daily. Give yourself regular trims every 4-6 weeks to chop off split ends before they cause damage. Use hair supplements containing biotin, collagen and keratin to nourish hair inside and out. Seek professional help if excessive shedding occurs – there may be underlying causes to address. With proper care, breakage can be managed during transitioning.
Caring For Mixed Textures
As your hair texture changes, know that the new growth and relaxed ends have different needs. Use heavy creams and butters on the natural section while light lotions and oils hydrate the relaxed portion. Detangle in small sections using your fingers instead of a brush on curly follicles. Set the textures with rollers or flexi rods to achieve defined curls instead of flat ironing together. With some practice and learning your hair's patterns, you can successfully style two textures at once.
Monitoring Your Progress
It's normal for transitioning hair to be in an awkward phase. Don't get discouraged – stay faithful to your routine and protective styling. Take regular progress photos to measure visible length retention over months. Notice strengths and weaknesses to fine-tune your regimen. With patience and TLC, eventually all your hair will naturally fall into place. Embrace each stage of your journey to your healthy, natural crown of glory.